Green Tip of the Month: Conservation in the Laboratory

Reduce Consider how much waste will be generated by a product before buying it and avoid excess and unnecessary packaging whenever possible. For example, choose stackable pipette tips and falcon tubes packaged in bulk (rather than in styrofoam racks), which can be ordered from the Rockefeller Storeroom, and use washable and autoclavable labware and containers, whenever safe and possible.

The Rockefeller Storeroom carries biodegradable corn-based labware, such as conical tubes, petri dishes and pipettes (and many cost about the same as the plastic alternative!). The storeroom is also working to increase the number of biodegradable tissue culture products available. Ask your sales representatives about green alternatives to commonly used materials.

Recycle Regardless of the products purchased, there are always opportunities to recycle. Rockefeller recycling bins throughout campus accept paper, number 1 & 2 plastics, metal and glass. Additionally, several vendors have recycling programs for used packaging (like styrofoam inserts or even the entire package), and the materials can be shipped free of charge back to the company.

Did You Know?

Did You Know? Producing polylactic acid (PLA), the plastic derived from the renewable resource of corn, uses 65% less energy than producing conventional plastics.